The Weight of Time

Gentle light streamed into Ume and Ren's wedding venue. Dressed in a pure white gown, Ume radiated a mature elegance never seen before, smiling beside Ren. He too, looking sharp in his black tuxedo, maintained a slightly nervous expression. The couple's appearance was as beautiful as a scene from a movie, with guests watching over them happily.

Standing in the center as their marriage officiant, Sora surveyed the venue with an innocent smile. Her black twin tails sparkled in the soft light, her appearance unchanged since high school, giving a mystical impression as if time had stopped.

"Thank you all for gathering here today to celebrate the wedding of my dear friends, Ume and Ren," Sora's clear voice resonated throughout the venue. The guests' expressions softened as they listened to her voice.

"These two first met in high school. Though they used to argue constantly, they've now become such wonderful partners for each other."

At these words, Ume's eyes grew misty, while Ren bashfully looked away.

"I believe Ume's brightness and Ren's kindness will intertwine to create a wonderful family. May much happiness come to them both."

As Sora finished speaking, the venue filled with warm applause. Her innocent and pure words of blessing gently embraced the hearts of all present.

---

As the ceremony progressed and the couple exchanged their kiss of commitment, Sora noticed an odd sensation spreading in her chest. Ren's expression as he said "I love you," Ume's smiling face streaked with tears - both held emotions that Sora still couldn't fully comprehend.

In the reception hall, guests exchanged congratulatory words in a lively atmosphere. Yuta approached Sora.

"It was a beautiful ceremony."

"Yes! They both looked so happy, which makes me happy too! ♪"

Sora responded with an innocent smile, but Yuta's expression turned somewhat thoughtful.

"Sora, have you ever thought about your future?"

Sora tilted her head, blinking.

"Well... everyone looks so happy, and that makes me happy too. But..."

After a slight pause, as if searching for words, she continued.

"I still don't really understand these feelings everyone talks about, like 'like' and 'love.'"

Yuta's eyes widened slightly in surprise at her words, then he smiled gently.

"I see... that's just like you, Sora."

His voice carried a hint of sadness, yet remained warm. These subtle emotional fluctuations were still something Sora couldn't quite grasp.

---

As the party reached its peak, Takashi and the other members of Sora's guard continued taking photos of her as always. While their enthusiasm remained unchanged, others showed off their wedding rings, shared family photos, or engaged in work discussions. The passage of time was clearly visible among them.

"Thank you, Sora."

Suddenly, Ren approached Sora. His expression lacked its usual arrogance, instead showing a gentle softness.

"I'll always cherish Ume. That's my- not this great me's- but my promise."

"Yes! I truly wish for both of your happiness! ♪"

When Sora responded with a smile, Ren returned it with a slightly embarrassed laugh.

---

As the party drew to a close and the newlyweds prepared to leave, Sora stood alone in a corner of the venue, quietly watching the sunset. The soft light streaming through the large windows gently colored her twin tails.

"How strange..."

Her whispered words were too quiet for anyone to hear. Watching her friends gradually changing brought an odd feeling to her heart. Even Sora herself couldn't quite understand what it was. An indescribable feeling slowly spread within her chest.

"Sora."

Yuta quietly approached and stood beside her.

"Everyone looked so happy today."

"Yes... but Yuta, don't you feel lonely?"

Surprised by the unexpected question, Yuta's expression showed momentary shock.

"Why?"

"Because you can't go out much since you're taking care of Asuka, right?"

Yuta smiled gently and answered in a kind voice.

"I'm fine. Because I have people who are precious to me."

At these words, Sora felt an strange warmth. Yuta's gaze held no hesitation, seeming to harbor a strong will to protect what was important to him.

The evening light gently enveloped them both. In that silence, as if time had stopped, yet surely breathing with change, a new emotion began to sprout behind Sora's innocent smile, something that had never been there before.